Neonatologist

Role & responsibilities

Medical care and treatment

• Diagnose and treat newborn illnesses, disorders, and birth defects.
• Provide immediate care to infants in the delivery room, especially those with medical problems or who are born prematurely.
• Stabilize and treat critically ill or life-threatening medical problems in newborns.
• Prescribe and administer treatments and medications, including performing procedures like inserting IV lines or breathing tubes.
• Ensure newborns receive proper nutrition for healing and growth.
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, and ultrasounds to monitor health and organ function.

Coordination and collaboration

• Coordinate and manage all aspects of a newborn's care, including surgical treatment plans.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team including nurses, respiratory therapists, obstetricians, and pediatricians.
• Consult with other specialists as needed to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintain detailed and accurate medical records.

Family support and education

• Provide emotional support to families and help them understand their infant's condition and treatment options.
• Educate families on newborn care and risks.
• Ensure parents have opportunities to bond with their infants, especially during long stays in the NICU.

Research and professional development

• Conduct research and clinical trials.
• Stay current with advancements in neonatology through continuing education.
• Train and educate medical students and nurses.